By highlighting the industry's countless accomplishments over the last century, TIA's plan is designed to celebrate the many companies and individuals that have made the world of toys such an energizing business today. Exhibitors, attendees and media are invited to participate in the week's festivities and are encouraged to be an active part of the celebration.

Mark your calendars with the following events that will take place during TOY FAIR Week that will run from Wednesday, February 12th through Wednesday, February 19th:

Wed., 2/12
TIA Member Reception

Thurs., 2/13
The Toy District: Center of the World of Toys
This day will highlight the historic toy district in New York City.

Fri., 2/14
Celebrating the Design Process
The Toy Design Department at Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) will host a reception and tour from 10:00 - 11:30am on February 14th. Invited media and guests will be able to meet with faculty, students and alumni, as well as visit a working classroom and explore a showroom with product designs from current and former FIT students.

Sat., 2/15
3rd annual T.O.T.Y. Awards Ceremony
You won't want to miss this exciting Awards Dinner, held at the Waldorf-Astoria, from 6:30-11:00 p.m. Formal invitations will be mailed in November.

Sun., 2/16
Javits Opening and Record-Breaking Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
Join us for the kickoff at Javits as we break the Guinness World Record for "World's Largest Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony". This exciting event will take place just prior to the show opening and will be followed by birthday cake for all!

Also, don't miss the TOY FAIR Centennial Bash at the new Copacabana (located across the street from the Javits Center at 34th Street & 11th Avenue), 6-9 p.m. Tickets are $25 and are available in advance during the registration process; half of each ticket price will be donated to the Toy Industry Foundation.

Mon., 2/17
Celebrating a Century of Toys
The media focus for this day will be on the current state of the toy industry while highlighting some of the amazing accomplishments during the last 100 years.

Tues., 2/18
The Front Lines: Honoring Toy Retailers
ASTRA will hold a Breakfast Seminar, in cooperation with the TIA, at the Javits Center. A special commemorative TOY FAIR poster is being created which will be distributed to local toy retailers to display. Articles in the TOY FAIR Times Show Daily will be published, and TOY FAIR seminars will focus on retailers.

Wed., 2/19
Caring for Children
Activities will allow focus on the toy industry's own charitable work, specifically through the Toy Industry Foundation. In addition, on the last day of TOY FAIR each year, exhibitors contribute significant amounts of product to K.I.D.S. (Kids In Distressed Situations).

2003 TOY FAIR will be a must see/must attend spectacular for the trade! We are committed to making this the best TOY FAIR ever and are excited to make show participants a part of this landmark salute to the industry and the power of play.

TIA, formerly known as Toy Manufacturers of America (TMA®), was established in 1916 as the trade association for producers and importers of toys, games and entertainment products for children and families. Its 280 members account for 85% of U.S. toy sales. TIA also owns and operates American International TOY FAIR™ held each February at the Javits Convention Center and at showrooms in Manhattan's Toy District.